Tips for Seniors: Stay Cool During Hot, Humid Weather High temperatures can take a toll on health. You should take extra care to keep cool and hydrated during hot, humid days. Here are a few tips for enjoying the summer weather while keeping comfortable and safe:

Keeping Cool: Wear light colors and light ma-terials such as linen and cotton. Materials such as rayon and polyester tend to trap heat close to the skin. Wear loose fitting clothing and wear a hat with a wide brim to protect the face.

Stay indoors during extremely hot weather. Lower shades, blinds, or close drapes on the east side of your home during the morning hours and the west side during the afternoon in order to keep your home or apartment as cool as possible. Use a fan in the rooms where the windows are covered. If you do not have air conditioning in your home, go to your local Council on Aging/senior center, mall, movie theater or library in order to stay cool. Wear sunscreen SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher. Wear a wide-brimmed hat or take an umbrella to block the sun. Avoid strenuous activity.

Keeping Hydrated: The best liquid to drink during hot, humid days is water. Drink plenty of water, even if you are not thirsty, in order to stay hydrated. Avoid drinks with caffeine. Avoid alcoholic beverages which will dehydrate your body.

Using Common Sense: Avoid long walks, par-ticularly during noon-3pm, when the sun is at its peak. Slow down, avoid strenuous activity. Con-tact your doctor if you are taking several drugs for a number of health problems because these may make it harder for your body to keep cool through perspiration. For further tips on staying cool please visit the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency’s website at: www.mass.gov/mema.